New national research reveals overwhelming and unexpected consensus among Australians on the need for stronger animal welfare laws — cutting across traditional divides between city and country, and even political lines.
The nationally representative survey of more than 1,000 Australians, conducted by BehaviourWorks Australia, shows strong majority support for key reforms including recognising animal sentience in law, increasing government investment in animal welfare, and establishing independent oversight of policy development processes.
Alliance for Animals Policy Director Dr Jed Goodfellow said the findings challenge long-held assumptions about where the community stands.
"This research shows that support for better animal welfare isn't confined to inner-city voters or particular political groups — it is broad, deep and national," Dr Goodfellow said.
"Regional Australians are, if anything, slightly more supportive of reform than those in metropolitan areas. That turns the conventional narrative on its head."
The research also reveals support across the political spectrum, including among voters who typically support conservative parties.
"That tells us this is not a partisan issue. It's a mainstream expectation."
Key findings include:
- More than 70% of Australians support recognising animal sentience in law
- Over 70% agree decision-makers should be legally required to reduce harm to animals
- Nearly 80% want an independent authority to oversee animal welfare policy
- Nearly 90% say it is important for governments to make and enforce animal protection laws.
The study also highlights low and decreasing trust in political parties and industries that use animals, and strong trust in animal welfare experts and organisations.
Political candidates with stronger animal welfare policies were also found to be more likeable, relatable and empathetic.
"These results send a clear message to governments: the community expects animal welfare policy to be independent, evidence-based and properly resourced," Dr Goodfellow said.
"There is a clear mandate for reform — and it's coming from all parts of the Australian community."
